BURLINGTON – Ontario is investing $125,000 through the 2025 Experience Ontario program to support the Sound of Music Festival in Burlington. This is part of a nearly $20-million investment in festivals and events across Ontario to help organizers expand programming and draw visitors to stay longer in local accommodations, eat in restaurants, shop at local retailers and support main street businesses.
“Festivals and events showcase the best of Ontario, it’s people and its culture all while inviting people near and far to experience and enjoy our province. They help create local jobs, provide economic benefits and bring communities together,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Now more than ever, it is important that we come together to take part in made-in-Ontario experiences that celebrate our collective identity and support local communities.”
In total, Experience Ontario 2025 is supporting more than 350 festivals and events across the province.
"I am pleased that Ontario is once again supporting the Burlington Sound of Music Festival. The Festival showcases the vibrant arts and culture that make Burlington such a dynamic place to live and visit,” said Natalie Pierre, MPP for Burlington. “Supporting this festival means investing in Canadian, Ontario and local talent, boosting tourism, and strengthening community pride — values that are at the heart of our province’s identity.”
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Since it’s early beginnings in 1980, Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival has been delighting locals and tourists alike. 45 years later, it is Canada’s Largest Free Music Festival and this year’s $125,000 Experience Ontario Grant will go a long way to ensuring this Festival is the go-to summer event. – Effie J. Triantafilopoulos (Oakville North—Burlington) and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming.
"On behalf of The Sound of Music Festival, we are absolutely delighted and deeply thankful to be receiving one-time funding of up to $125,000 from the Province of Ontario. This support brings joy to the people of Burlington and thousands of Ontarians who gather to celebrate live music, community, and the vibrant cultural fabric of our province. Your investment sings in harmony with our mission — to showcase local and regional talent, uplift our economy, and share the spirit of Ontario with audiences near and far. With this funding, we can confidently move forward in orchestrating another unforgettable celebration that will strike a chord with Ontarians and visitors alike. Special thanks to the Province of Ontario and Natalie Pierre, MPP Burlington for their ongoing support of the Sound of Music Festival." – Dave Shepherd, Chairperson Sound of Music